The Robertson Research Group Pension Scheme has completed a £45m full scheme buy-in with Aviva, securing the benefits of 217 pensioners and 232 deferred members.

K3 Advisory led the transaction, while Squire Patton Boggs provided legal advice to the trustee board, which is chaired by Capital Cranfield professional trustee, John Nestor.

Commenting on the deal, Nestor said: “This was quite a complex transaction, and we were really pleased with the innovation and pragmatism displayed by all advisers – clearly demonstrating what can be achieved when all parties work together.

"We have now been able to successfully secure the benefits of our members.”

Adding to this, K3 Advisory managing director, Adam Davis, stated: “This transaction was interesting as it needed to overcome liquidity issues within the scheme’s investment portfolio.

"With many schemes journey time to buyout having reduced materially over recent years, illiquid assets are now an increasingly common issue in our experience.

"But the good news is there are several practical ways to resolve the issue and transact, as this deal shows. It was also particularly pleasing to be able to secure all member benefits upfront.”

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